Mabuza-Perez presser!

Photo: Walter Sarnoi/Thompson Boxing Promotions

The press conference for Friday’s IBF bantamweight title eliminator between Silence Mabuza (22-2, 18 KOs) and Yonnhy Perez (18-0, 13 KOs) took place at the Johannesburg television studios of media giant SABC Sport on Monday. “Perez is a good fighter, he has speed, power, and a great amateur career,” stated Mabuza. “But he has never faced anybody of name in his career. I fought the best; I have vast experience in situations like this. Perez has not faced one quality opponent and now he is in front of me, he is blocking my way to the championship belt and I have to take him out of the way. I am very confident this fight will end in a knockout, I will win in spectacular fashion.” Perez countered, “I know Mabuza from watching him on different DVDs. He is a tough fighter but he is not invincible. I have worked long and hard to be here today, he might think he will knock me out but he better be ready for 12 hard rounds. An opportunity like this only comes once in a lifetime and I will make the best of it. If he thinks he will clear me out of the ring early he is dead wrong. Things like this don’t happen every day and I know I will win.” The bout is presented by Branco Sports Promotions, in association with Thompson Boxing Promotions and Gary Shaw Productions and will take place at the Springs Indoor Arena just outside Johannesburg.